a circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result or outcome, a number or quantity that when multiplied with another produces a given number or expression

the X factor, factor into, factor out

factor in, common factor, risk factor

Formal and Informal Expressions of factor

In different contexts, you can replace 'factor' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'element, component' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'thing, stuff' is a commonplace synonym.

factor: Explore its Definition & Usage

factor Definition

1a circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result or outcome
2a number or quantity that when multiplied with another produces a given number or expression

Using factor: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "factor" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
One of the factors contributing to her success was her dedication.
Example
The weather was a major factor in our decision to cancel the event.
Example
The company's financial performance is a key factor in its success.
Example
The prime factorization of 12 is 2 x 2 x 3.

factor Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for factor

Antonyms for factor

Idioms Using factor

the X factor
a variable in a situation that could have the most significant impact on the outcome
Example
Her charisma was the X factor that made her stand out from the other candidates.
factor into
to be included or considered as part of a larger situation or problem
Example
The rising cost of living factors into the decision to move to a cheaper city.
factor out
to remove or exclude something from a calculation or equation
Example
We need to factor out the effect of inflation to get an accurate picture of the economy.

Phrases with factor

factor in
to include or consider something when making a decision or calculation
Example
We need to factor in the cost of materials before we can determine the final price.
common factor
a number or quantity that divides two or more numbers or quantities without leaving a remainder
Example
The common factor of 12 and 18 is 6.
risk factor
something that increases the likelihood of a negative outcome or disease
Example
Smoking is a major risk factor for lung cancer.

Origins of factor

from Old French 'facteur', from Latin 'factor' meaning 'doer'

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Summary: factor in Brief

The term 'factor' [ˈfæktər] refers to a circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result or outcome. It can also denote a number or quantity that multiplies with another to produce a given number or expression. Examples include 'The weather was a major factor in our decision to cancel the event.' and 'The prime factorization of 12 is 2 x 2 x 3.' Phrases like 'factor in' and idioms like 'the X factor' extend its usage to include considering variables and significant impacts.